SoFi Stadium will host eight World Cup matches this summer. In a letter addressed to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and stadium owner Stan Kroenke, Unite Here Local 11 co-president Kurt Petersen called for FIFA leaders to abide by fair working practices, citing allegations of wage theft overseas during past iterations of the tournament. Petersen also demanded FIFA issue a public statement saying ICE has no place in the city or at the games.
According to Petersen, Airbnb is a factor contributing to the city’s shortage of affordable housing, and he requested that FIFA cut ties with Airbnb and contribute to a housing fund for hospitality workers. Airbnb earlier this year rolled out a $750 incentive to court first-time hosts in North American cities holding World Cup matches. ICE's role in World Cup security has drawn broader scrutiny.
In February, New Jersey congresswoman Nellie Pou asked ICE’s acting director Todd Lyons at a House hearing if the agency would pause enforcement operations at this year’s tournament. ICE, specifically homeland security investigations, is a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup. Between June and July, Los Angeles is estimated to see 150,000 more out-of-town visitors than typical for the time period.
It remains unknown whether FIFA will respond to the union's demands or take any action, and whether the union will actually proceed with the strike if demands are not met. How ICE plans to conduct its security operations at the World Cup in Los Angeles is also unclear.